The Art of Murder: 'Classic' Columbo: The Early NBC Years Paperback – November 20, 2024

The Art of Murder: ‘Classic’ Columbo examines the early NBC years of this much-loved show, from the very first TV Movie ‘pilot’ in 1968 to the fifth season, covering what is generally regarded as the artistic pinnacle of a series which would run – on and off – until 2003. Each of the first 36 episodes is put under the microscope, with twenty topics explored in each chapter, including the playful titles, guest characters/actors, interesting sets and locations, the use of comedy and humour, the rapport between lieutenant and villain, Columbo ‘quips’, inventive direction and the (Hitchcockian) artful ways in which the directors and cinematographers conveyed the murder sequences. There is a highly subjective rating for each story, with a justification attached.A global phenomenon at the time, with huge audience figures in countries as disparate as Romania and Japan, Columbo is still attracting new viewers, more than half a century after its initial season aired. By exploring the format and formula of the show, including Peter Falk’s unique impact, The Art of Murder seeks to explain why a 1970s detective series has retained a ‘timeless’ appeal.Oh, and just one more thing…each chapter contains spoilers. Read more